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About this quote

What does it mean?
When language fails, people talk to hide thoughts rather than express them.
In plain terms
People talk to hide their minds.
What can you take from it?
Be wary when words hide truth.

Where it applies

  • negotiation
  • politics
  • relationships

Putting it to work

  • listen for subtext
  • watch for evasion

Questions to consider

  • When do people hide with words?
  • How to detect deception?

Another view

It assumes all hidden talk is deceptive.

More from Edward Young

  1. The booby father craves a booby son, And by Heaven's blessing thinks himself undone.

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  2. Be wise with speed; A fool at forty is a fool indeed.

    Permalink to quote #18
  3. None think the great unhappy but the great.

    Permalink to quote #15

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